Surf Life Saving volunteers start patrols this weekend

The familiar red and yellow caps will be seen on beaches from Yamba up to Fingal Head.

Lifeguards contracted to local councils and a support operations fleet of rescue jet skis, duty officers, communication centres and the Ballina jet rescue boat will join volunteers from Far North Coast clubs.

Each beach on the Far North Coast has varying surf conditions that can sometimes be dangerous to those who are unfamiliar with a particular beach or break, so following common sense rules can avert a tragedy.

Beach patrols will continue through the summer season and until the end of the autumn school holidays next year.

"Throughout the season we get enquiries from the public about how to become a surf lifesaver or a lifeguard, and we definitely are always on the lookout for new members," Michael Gibbs of Surf Life Saving FNC said.

"Now is a great time to join up. Most surf lifesavers start their training with the Bronze Medallion which enables them to patrol the beach.

"We're looking forward to a busy summer and the community can assist by staying between the flags."